Occupational Therapy Workshops with Dr. Dorothy Armstrong

Dr Dorothy Armstrong (MSc PhD) is an expert occupational therapist who specialises in the area of neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD, Developmental Coordination Disorder / Dyspraxia). She works on projects to promote inclusion and delivers training, education and advice to organisations such as schools, community groups and businesses. She has made television and radio appearances and is the author of the book 'The Next Adventure: Transitioning to Secondary School when you have Developmental Coordination Disorder'. More information about Dorothy can be found on her website: www.dorothyarmstrongconsultantot.com

These sessions will take place in person at Leixlip Library, Captain's Hill, Newtown, Leixlip, Co. Kildare.

Autistic Adults and Autism Burnout

Tuesday 25th February 2025 7pm-8.30pm

‘‘Autistic burnout is a state of physical and mental fatigue, heightened stress, and diminished capacity to manage life skills, sensory input, and/or social interactions, which comes from years of being severely overtaxed by the strain of trying to live up to demands that are out of sync with your own needs.’’ (www.autism.org.uk). Autism burnout can result in the need for significant time off work or college and can easily be misunderstood for other conditions. This talk is designed for adults who are/have/or are concerned about experiencing autism burnout. Dr Dorothy Armstrong will discuss what the condition is, the recovery process and what you can do to help. She will also discuss prevention strategies and lifestyle changes that will help going forward.

Developmental Coordination Disorder (Dyspraxia) in Adulthood

Tuesday 4th March 2025 7pm-8.30pm

Developmental Coordination Disorder (Dyspraxia) is a life-long condition that primarily impacts motor coordination, organisation and planning. It can also cause significant levels of stress and fatigue. Dr Dorothy Armstrong will discuss the experience of having DCD/Dyspraxia in adulthood. She will also discuss the assessment process for adults who suspect they have DCD/Dyspraxia and weren’t diagnosed in childhood and will present self-help strategies for adults with this condition.

Helping Neurodivergent Students transition from Primary school to Secondary School

Tuesday 11th March 2025 7pm-8.30pm
Secondary school presents many new challenges for Neurodivergent students (i.e. autistic students or those with DCD/Dyspraxia, ADHD etc.). This is a very significant change in their lives and they need some extra support to help this transition to go as smoothly as possible. Dr Dorothy Armstrong will host an evening that is aimed at parents, teachers and those who work with Neurodivergent teenagers. It will cover the following issues:

· Coping with Change – preparation while in primary school.

· Challenges faced in secondary school

· The first weeks – what to expect and how to help

· Time for Questions and Answers

An Introduction to Social Stories – Opening the Social World for Autistic Children

Tuesday 18th March 2025 7pm-8.30pm

The world can be a perplexing place for an autistic child. Faces can be hard to read, people can say things they don’t mean and there can be lots of rules that other children seem to pick up easily that can be difficult to interpret e.g. standing in a line, waiting for a turn etc. Social stories are used to help autistic children learn about the social world in an affirming, Neuroaffirmative and child centred way. They are written for the individual child using an evidence based method and are written using positive language which holds the child’s dignity and self-esteem at the centre of the process. This talk is based on the work or Carol Gray, who is the proponent of social stories.

I’ve just been told my child is autistic – what do I do now?

Tuesday 25th March 2025 7pm-8.30pm

Learning that your child is autistic can be a daunting experience for parents. You may have found it difficult to access services and be wondering what you need to do next. Dr Dorothy

Armstrong will discuss the support that is available, sensory tools and strategies that will help your child and how to set goals for your child’s development. There will be time for questions and answers.

**Please note that these are in-person events taking place at Leixlip Library.**